Wednesday, January 30, 2019

Serious Wednesdays: Do You Long for More Reviews?

Here are a few steps that may help you land a few more professional reviews.

Remember that this is a professional business

and when approaching reviewers and book review sites, act professional.

Try for a personal note by greeting the reviewer by name. If you're looking on a site or blog for requirements, etc., then search until you find that name. Address them as "Dear Mr/Mrs/Ms Brown." rather than the generic one of "Dear Madam" or "Dear Sir." Not only does this show some diligence on your part in knowing the reviewer's name, but is a sign of respect.

Don't overdo the familiarity. Keep it simple in the first sentence by stating your name and the title of your book. When you end your letter, sign it simply as "Sincerely."

In your letter, include a word count for an e-copy of your book. If you're sending a print book, a page count is fine. This will clue in the reviewer on the time frame.

Include a short synopsis and book blurb. Make it interesting and one that captures the reviewer's attention. You'll want him/her panting to read your book!

Also, you'll need to mention the genre of your book. Be specific. If it's a "who-done-it" then make sure you state that its a mystery. Thriller? Then the reviewer will be expecting a fast-paced read. By not following through correctly with this, can give the reviewer cause to mention it negatively in your review. Be diligent!

If you have a time frame when the book will be published or promoted, then by all means include this. If, as many authors have, no time frame demand, then ignore it. This will help the reviewer decide if he has the time to read and review it.

If you're emailing your request, on the subject line, keep it simple and short. Book review request should do the job.

Be polite and respectful, keep it simple, and provide the details the reviewer needs to decide if he has the time and if she's interested. Hoping for more reviews for YOU!

About Me

I love writing and books, dogs and cats, babies and grandsons, real cheesecake and fruit, country scenes and cities at night, chocolate and nuts, fireplaces and hot tubs, flowers and trees, Christmas trees and Christmas--period, research and editing, eating and hanging with my best buddy--hubby, stories that intrigue me and stories that enchant me, words of wisdom from the ancients and words of wisdom from children, and certainly not least: God and his mercy.